Microsoft today announced that more than 70,000 students across Northern Ireland have developed STEM, digital and AI skills through its flagship Dream Space skilling programme, since its launch in Northern Ireland in 2019, marking a significant milestone for the initiative.
As students and teachers prepare to return for the new academic year, Microsoft is inviting primary and post-primary schools to register to participate in Dream Space learning experiences delivered through its hub at W5 LIFE in Belfast. All Dream Space programmes are provided free of charge, ensuring students and educators can access hands-on STEM, digital skills and AI learning opportunities regardless of school budget or resources.
In addition, applications are also open for students to apply for the Microsoft Dream Space Ambassador Programme for the 2026/27 academic year. The initiative empowers young people to become STEM and AI champions in their schools and local communities, helping peers and teachers build confidence through demonstrations, workshops and peer-to-peer learning.
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To date, 1,467 students have taken part in the Ambassador programme, helping to extend its reach to more than 20,000 additional learners, including peers, teachers and other adults across Northern Ireland. The programme is open to Primary 6 and 7, alongside KS4 students in second level and EOTAS learners, with a passion for STEM and a desire to inspire, support and mentor their peers.
Catherine Doyle, General Manager, Microsoft Ireland, said: “Northern Ireland has a tremendous opportunity to establish itself as a global leader in the AI era, but realising that potential starts with investing in the next generation of talent. Reaching more than 70,000 students through Microsoft Dream Space is a significant milestone and reflects the enthusiasm we continue to see from schools, teachers and students right across the region.
“Through our collaboration with W5 LIFE and with the support of engaging educators, industry and government, we are helping young people develop the STEM, digital and AI skills that are essential for the digital economy. As schools return for the new academic year, we look forward to welcoming the next generation of Dream Space learners and Ambassadors, empowering them with the skills, confidence and curiosity to shape Northern Ireland's future as an AI innovation hub."
Christine Rodgers, teacher at Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School said: “Dream Space has been a fantastic resource for our students and staff. The programme gives young people the opportunity to explore STEM and AI in a practical and engaging way, while also providing teachers in our school with really valuable professional development and classroom resources.
“Since going along to the Dream Space hub in Belfast, our students have grown in confidence, creativity and problem-solving ability and we would encourage other schools to get involved."
Seth, student from Carrickfergus Model Primary School said: “The Dream Space team taught us basic coding skills, internet safety, and the value of teamwork, communication, friendship. Doing the training with Dream Space was brilliant and just so much fun and I just loved every second of it.”
Microsoft Dream Space in Northern Ireland
Microsoft has committed to invest £1 million in Dream Space Northern Ireland as part of its broader ambition to equip every student and teacher across the island of Ireland. Building on this commitment, Microsoft announced an additional investment of £3.4 million in the Dream Space programme across the island of Ireland last year to further expand its AI skilling programmes and reach even more students, teachers and communities.
Since launching in Northern Ireland in 2019, Dream Space has helped students and teachers develop the STEM, digital and AI skills needed for a rapidly changing world. Through immersive, hands-on learning experiences, the free skilling programme encourages young people to be curious, creative and confident in how they use technology. Its dedicated educational hub at W5 LIFE in Belfast, which opened in November 2022, has welcomed students, teachers and schools from across the region.
Developed in collaboration with educators, Microsoft Dream Space enables students to explore areas including AI, coding, computer science and robotics through engaging real-world challenges and practical learning experiences. Students are encouraged to think creatively, work collaboratively and apply their knowledge to solve real-world problems, helping them develop capabilities that will be increasingly important in the future workplace.
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Alongside its Dream Space hub in Belfast and Microsoft’s Academic Innovators Academy Microsoft supports teachers across Northern Ireland through professional learning opportunities delivered in partnership with the Education Authority and academic institutions. Through the Academic Innovators Academy and dedicated training sessions, educators gain the skills and confidence to integrate digital technologies and AI into classroom learning.
How to get involved
Schools and teachers across Northern Ireland interested in taking part in Dream Space activities in the new academic year can register here: https://w5online.co.uk/w5-life/life-programmes/dream-space.
To register a student for the Microsoft Dream Space Ambassador Programme and provide them with a valuable opportunity to develop their leadership and digital skills, visit: https://www.microsoft.com/en/dreamspaceambassador/.
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